Scrivener Dam

Scrivener Dam is a gravity dam that stretches 319 meters across the Molonglo River at a height of 33 meters. Five spillway gates control the water flow into Lake Burley Griffin.

The dam was completed in 1963 as a major step in building Canberra's infrastructure. It was named after Charles Scrivener, the territory's first surveyor.

The dam created Lake Burley Griffin, which became central to how Canberra residents spend their leisure time outdoors. Today, people gather here for water sports, fishing, and casual moments along the shoreline.

Visit on days with stable weather when the paths around the lake are easiest to walk. Wear proper shoes since the areas around the dam and along the shoreline sit at different levels.

The dam uses fish-belly flap gates, a specialized design that allows precise control of water levels. This system keeps shoreline changes from being too visually obvious to visitors.

Location: Australian Capital Territory

Elevation above the sea: 554 m

GPS coordinates: -35.29972,149.07222

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43